Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is proud to present a once-in-a-generation offering direct from the legendary Kimber Vault—an extraordinary collection of firearms that have never before been released to the public. These remarkable pieces include Serial Number One examples, rare prototypes, and factory display & salesman samples, ALL of which were retained internally for decades by Kimber's Founder, Owner, & CEO, Leslie Edelman.
Until now, these firearms have remained unseen outside of the company’s inner circle, making this a truly unprecedented opportunity for collectors. Each firearm will be accompanied by an official Kimber Factory Certificate of Authenticity, further solidifying its provenance and historical significance.
As the exclusive outlet entrusted with their release, Bryant Ridge Co. offers collectors a unique chance to acquire historically significant Kimber firearms with unmatched provenance and desirability.
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this semi-automatic pistol today for a penny-start auction; this is the Kimber Custom II (H CO 171AVN) with Serial Number #HCO171-00!
This Kimber Factory Letter documents a Kimber Tactical II (H CO 171AVN), identified by the significant serial number HCO171-00. Chambered in .45 ACP, this firearm features a 5-inch barrel, a matte black finish, and wood grips adorned with 171st Tac Emblems. The document designates this pistol as "Serial Number One" of a special edition series, a title reserved for the inaugural example of a limited production run. According to the remarks, this piece was historically retained within the personal collection of Kimber’s founder and owner, Leslie Edelman, and was never released to the public. Signed by Edelman and dated February 6, 2026, the letter confirms its release from the Kimber Vault and its delivery to Bryant Ridge Co. in Liberty, Kentucky.
Although no official records exist for this specific prototype design, it can reasonably be inferred that this example was produced as a “Mock-Up” for evaluation against military specifications. In our research, we have not found any indications that this particular model was put into production whatsoever.
Model: Tactical II (H CO 171AVN)
Serial: HCO171-00
Caliber: .45 ACP
Finish: Matte Black
Barrel Length: 5"
Optics/Sights: Low Profile Adjustable Rear w/ Dovetailed Front Post
Stock/Grips: Checkered Wooden Double Diamond Two-Piece Grips w/ 171st TAC Emblems
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The left side of the slide is factory engraved with “OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM” above an attack helicopter and an American Flag. The right side of the slide is engraved with “H CO 171ST TAC” above an aircraft and “IRAQ” with an outline of the country.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Kimber Tactical II (H CO 171AVN) is a specialized and seldom-seen variant built on Kimber’s proven Tactical II platform, incorporating markings tied to Headquarters Company, 171st Aviation Regiment. Designed with real-world performance in mind, the Tactical II features a match-grade barrel, front strap checkering, and a duty-oriented configuration that delivers the reliability and accuracy expected from Kimber’s tactical 1911 lineup. The addition of “H CO 171AVN” markings sets this example apart from standard production, directly linking it to a specific Army aviation unit. What distinguishes this pistol is its highly specific company-level designation, which places it well outside typical commercial offerings. Firearms marked for individual companies or aviation regiments are generally produced in very limited quantities and distributed through specialized or affiliated channels, often intended for members of that unit or closely connected individuals. This level of specificity significantly reduces the number of examples in circulation, making them rarely encountered on the open market, particularly in high condition or complete package form. From a collector’s standpoint, the combination of a proven Kimber tactical platform with a clearly defined aviation unit association creates a compelling and niche offering. Firearms tied to specific companies within aviation regiments carry a unique appeal due to their direct connection to real-world service, and examples that remain well-preserved are increasingly difficult to locate. With little publicly available production data and few comparable examples observed, this Kimber Tactical II stands as a desirable and story-driven piece for collectors seeking a modern 1911 with meaningful military ties.
Contents:
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3-day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
Bryant Ridge also reserves the right to cancel any sales that may occur while gunbroker.com is experiencing technical issues that affects the entire site or a complete site outage, within an hour of the auction ending.
We have an amazing inventory of classic and collector firearms that we are adding to Gunbroker daily. Stay up to date on all of our latest auction by adding us to your favorite sellers list.
About Us
Additional Information
GunbrokerLink: |
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1174521610 |
BidPrice: |
0.01 |
AuctionEndDate: |
2026-05-31 22:00:00 |
CurrentBid: |
1545 |
SoldOutTime: |
2026-05-31 19:17:42 |
